Published 28 July 2021
We may be ‘udderly’ biased, but Jersey cows are one of the most beautiful animals you’ll ever meet. With their rich golden coats, soulful dark eyes and lush lashes that could rival any Hollywood star, these ladies are hard to miss when roaming around Jersey. Not only are they adored by locals, but even the The Royal Family have a herd. So, if you’re visiting, find out how to catch a glimpse of our Jersey girls and discover the top spots to taste the delicious dairy products our cows are famous for.
The History of Jersey cows
The Jersey cow has been strutting its stuff on the island for over 200 years and, while you might spot their signature golden coats in far-flung corners of the world, every single Jersey cow can be traced back to the original Jersey Herd Book, founded in 1863 by the Royal Jersey Agricultural & Horticultural Society. Today, more than 30 herds of these majestic cows roam the island, with an impressive 3,000 cows calling Jersey home. Talk about a legacy!
What’s so special about Jersey cows?
Well, Jersey cows are the petite powerhouses of the cow world: it’s not just their distinctive look, their milk is rich in butterfat. This is the key ingredient for creating the creamiest cheese and butter. In contrast, the larger UK cows, like the Holstein, are all about the volume, churning out plenty of milk but with less butterfat. Jersey cows are also known for their sweet, friendly nature which is why they’re a favourite on farm visits. UK cows? They’re more the “I’ll keep to myself” type. So, in a nutshell, Jersey cows bring charm, elegance and creamy goodness, while UK cows are all about bulk and independence.
How to meet a Jersey cow
There are a few ways you can meet one of our Jersey girls. One of the easiest ways to find one is by setting off on some island exploration. As you meander through our picturesque country lanes, ideally by bike or on foot, you’ll generally be lucky enough to cross paths with herds of Jersey cows roaming green pastures.
- March to October is the best time to spot our ladies when the fields are lush with tasty grass for them to munch on.
- From November to February the herds stick a little closer to home, but that doesn’t mean you won’t spot them. Keep your eyes peeled when roaming around our green lanes or on your way to the north of the island.
If you’re more of a “peek from a distance” kind of person, don’t worry—you can get the inside scoop with a virtual tour with Jersey Dairy.
Taste the difference
Jersey Milk
Jersey milk is no ordinary milk. It is heralded among dairy farmers around the world thanks to its superior properties. In fact, milk produced by our ‘Jersey girls’ contains on average 20% more protein and calcium, 25% more butterfat and a higher concentration of minerals and vitamins than other breeds of cow. With such high accolades, be sure to give it a try while you’re here!
Jersey Butter
Jersey butter is made using our world renowned, creamy Jersey milk which gives it a distinctively rich golden colour. Add a generous serving to some freshly boiled Jersey Royal potatoes with a sprig of mint, and you’ll be in foodie heaven.
Other unmissable dairy delights
Our girls’ high quality, rich and creamy milk is used to produce an amazing array of dairy delights including ice-cream, yoghurt, clotted cream and cheese.
Our favourite places to try it for yourself
Pop into the Royal Yacht Hotel for an afternoon tea using Jersey clotted cream… is your mouth watering yet?
Don’t miss the ice cream kiosk at La Corbière Lighthouse for a taste of real Jersey dairy ice cream during summer months. Explore our ice cream map to find more places to pick up this local treat.
Pick up Jersey Dairy products in any supermarket on the island. From a carton of milk to a pot of yogurt, find your favourite and tuck in.
Swing by Woodland’s Farm and grab a pot (or three) of La Cremiere salted caramel sauce. An indulgent treat made using Jersey milk from their own herd, it’s the ultimate good mood food. If you visit during the spring and summer months, don’t miss sampling their ‘udderly’ delicious Jersey gelato too. If you’re lucky you’ll even get to meet one of our bovine beauties while you’re there.
Find Blanc Pignon, creators of local artisan dairy products, in various island stores including the Coop, Rondels Farm Shop and Anneville Farm, to name just a few. Indulge in a selection of treats such as ‘Moolomi’ cheese, yogurt, eight irresistible gelato flavours including seasonal limited editions and milk sourced from their beloved herd of Jersey cows, pasteurised for quality, but never homogenised, ensuring that rich, creamy goodness in every gulp.
Looking for where you can taste these treats in the UK? Find out who stocks Jersey produce.
Fun facts about Jersey cows
Stay up to date with our favourite facts about our legend-dairy Jersey cows.
Did you know…?
- After World War II, Winston Churchill was presented with a Jersey cow as a gift of thanks from the people of Jersey.
- Jersey cows can walk upstairs but they can’t get back down because their knees don’t bend the right way!
- Jersey cows leave a 20% lower carbon footprint than other breeds.
- Just like our fingerprints, a cow’s nose print is unique.
- Before 1789, cows would be given as a dowry for inter-island marriages between Jersey and Guernsey.
